Should I Stay or Should I go? Design & Permitting Process.

January 28, 2026

Ever wondered if it is better to substantially remodel and/or add-on to your existing home, rather than sell and buy another? Real estate values have gone up considerably, and in our current seller's market, it's the buying-back-in that can be costly if it's not timed just right.

Considering the resources involved in the design, permitting, & construction process, is it worth it to leverage the appreciation gained in your current house and transform it into your dream home?

The simple answer is: It depends. Each property is unique, and each family is different. The best thing to do is explore all options and make informed decisions with the help of your professional real estate, design, & build community.

We recently ventured down this decision-making process with our Mercer Island clients. They purchased a lovely 1,800 SF lakefront home a few years ago, but it didn't meet their family's personality & lifestyle. They selected Suzanne Zahr as their Architect to help lead them down a path of discovery that would ultimately result in an informed "go / no-go" decision.

With each phase of the design process, new insights were creatively explored and considered. Here's a brief summary of our collaborative journey in creating their 4,500 SF dream home.

PERCH: Embracing the Woods.

March 27, 2024

An untouched 50’s rambler opens up to the sky and tree canopies, embracing the surrounding woods & lake views. Morning light floods in through the remodeled kitchen’s gable-end windows, as the views sweep around the corner. The dining room is perched at a diagonal, opening onto a wrap around deck, evoking treehouse vibes. The transformation of this home inspires a sense of retreat, while allowing for gatherings, big & small.

Suzanne Zahr Chair of MI Design Commission

February 3, 2023

During her second term, on November 2, 2022, Suzanne Zahr was voted in as Chair of the seven Design Commissioners for Mercer Island. As an architect with civil engineering background, Suzanne fills one of the seats as a professional member. She has established a Design/Build firm on Mercer Island, bringing over 25 years of experience that includes time with NBBJ, Olson Kundig, Starbucks, and Amazon (as an IA consultant). She is excited to continue providing her expertise in design and architecture through this volunteer position.

Established in 1972, the Design Commission board is a group of volunteers who each serve for four years. Each commissioner is confirmed by the majority vote of the City Council. The Design Commissioners serve as an advisory board to City Council, providing expert advice on design matters related to the City’s commercial buildings in the Mercer Island Town Center.

PERCH: Embracing the Woods

September 18, 2022

An untouched 60’s rambler opens up to the sky and tree canopies, embracing the surrounding woods & lake views. Morning light floods in through the remodeled kitchen’s gable-end windows, as the views sweep around the corner. The dining room is perched at a diagonal, opening onto a wrap around deck, evoking treehouse vibes. The transformation of this home inspires a sense of retreat, while allowing for gatherings, big & small.